(EMAILWIRE.COM, July 01, 2002 ) Thomas Kinkade today unveiled his newest release, "Hometown Pride." Created in commemoration of hometowns across America, "Hometown Pride" not only celebrates this great community, but will also benefit Habitat for Humanity International by the contribution of a portion of the proceeds. Habitat for Humanity International is the world's largest nonprofit home builder, dedicated to providing simple, affordable houses for families in need.

"'HometownPride,' embodies the American spirit, conveying the simplicity and serenity of life in everyday neighborhoods across America," Kinkade says. "Part of that spirit is the spirit of community giving. Here we have a chance to celebrate our charity and our inalienable freedoms."

For that reason, Kinkade announced this separate edition unique to more than 350 communities nationwide. "In 'Hometown Pride,' I'm trying to evoke the very essence of our American heritage-the peace, the precious freedoms that continue to be our birthright," says Kinkade. "Despite the differences that distinguish community from community, region from region, state from state, there's really so much we have in common. This unique edition celebrates our individuality as well as our unity," he adds.

Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry dedicated to eliminating poverty housing. Founded by Millard Fuller, along with his wife, Linda, Habitat for Humanity International and its affiliates in more than 2000 communities in 83 nations have built and sold more than 120,000 homes to partner families with no-profit, zero interest mortgages.

"At Habitat for Humanity, we are grateful for the support and generosity of partners like Thomas Kinkade to make sure people in need have a simple, decent place to live," said Millard Fuller, founder and president of Habitat for Humanity International. "We feel blessed that this artistic gift honoring the American community will help build better communities."

"Hometown Pride" is offered in framed and unframed canvas transfers available in 18"x 24", and ranging from $780 to $980 in retail value.

Thomas Kinkade is America's most-collected living artist, a painter-communicator whose tranquil, light-infused paintings bring hope and joy to millions each year. A devoted husband and father of four daughters, Kinkade grew up in the small town of Placerville, CA, where his traditional values were instilled. His devotion to spreading joy and peace through his art is Kinkade's life goal.

Thomas Kinkade limited-edition prints and canvas transfers are published by Media Arts Group, Inc. (NYSE: MDA) in Morgan Hill, CA. For more information about Thomas Kinkade contact the company at 1-800-366-3733 or visit the company's web site at www.mediaarts.com.

Media Arts Group publishes and licenses the work of Thomas Kinkade and distributes his art and related collectibles through approximately 4,500 independently owned galleries worldwide, an extensive network of Thomas Kinkade brand retailers, and strategic marketing relationships with companies such as Avon Products, Inc. and QVC Inc. The company's primary products are canvas and paper lithographs that feature Kinkade's unique use of light and his peaceful and inspiring themes. Kinkade, known as the "Painter of Light," is the most commercially successful and most collected living artist in U.S. history.

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Produced for Media Arts Group

Contacts:

Media Arts Group, Inc.
Taya Lucero, Corporate Relations
Phone (408) 201-5240
Fax (408) 201-5241
www.mediaarts.com
www.thomaskinkade.com
Taya_Lucero@mediaarts.com

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